Horner: Red Bull faces unenviable decision

Boss says both drivers deserve to stay in F1

But only one can win the world championship

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner says the team faces a "difficult decision" over which driver to favour in the Formula 1 world championship battle between Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez.

Verstappen is the reigning world champion and current championship leader, while Perez is second in the standings, 15 points adrift.

Both drivers have won two races this season, and Horner says they both deserve to stay in F1.

"It's a difficult decision," Horner said.

"Max is the reigning world champion, he's been with the team for a long time, and he's a proven race winner.

"But Sergio has also been very impressive this season, and he's shown that he's capable of winning races too.

"We want to give both drivers a fair chance to win the championship, but ultimately we have to make a decision about who we believe is the best driver to lead us to the title.

"It's not an easy decision, but it's one that we have to make.

Horner's comments come after Verstappen and Perez collided at the Austrian Grand Prix, costing both drivers a chance of victory.

The incident has led to speculation that Red Bull may favour Verstappen in the championship battle, but Horner says that is not the case.

"We don't have a number one driver," Horner said.

"Both Max and Sergio are free to race, and we will give them the best possible chance to win the championship.

"But we also have to be realistic, and we know that we can't afford to have any more incidents like the one in Austria.

"We need both drivers to work together and score points if we want to win the championship.

"It's not going to be easy, but I believe that we have the two best drivers in the world, and I'm confident that they can deliver for us.

The Formula 1 season continues with the French Grand Prix on July 24.